Originally from Chico, Brooke Bentley has lived in Truckee for 12 years. “Like many of us who move to the Truckee-Lake Tahoe area, I had the intention of living here for just one season to be a ski bum. One season quickly became two seasons, five seasons and then in a blink of an eye, 12 years. I now have a beautiful family with my husband Chad, two children Cortez and Pearl, our dog Leo and a business I have always wanted,” she said.

Bentley’s love for traveling, meeting new people, exploring different cultures of art, jewelry and clothing, made her admire La Galleria’s products from around the world. Her passion for the store began early as a customer and then shortly after, she applied for a part-time position as a sales associate. As time went on, Bentley was promoted to store manager and recently, she was presented the amazing opportunity of purchasing the store for herself.

Bentley’s experience at La Galleria during the past 10 years as a sales associate, store manager and now owner has earned her a following of local customers, frequent visitors and credible designers for the unique and knowledgeable shopping experience she and her staff provides.

Bentley and her husband Chad travel to Bali, Mexico and South America to discover different artists and bring affordable one-of-a-kind gifts for any occasion, any age group, of all prices.

Bentley also employs an expert staff who are artists specializing in jewelry design, paintings and glass. She values her employees and encourages their artistic growth by displaying the staff’s art for sale in the store. Brooke’s employees are also able to conduct jewelry repairs and travel to customer’s homes to consult in interior design.

Make a non-perishable food donation for a 15 percent discount during the remainder of December. For more information about La Galleria, call 530-587-5444, search “La Galleria Truckee, CA” on Facebook or visit www.lagalleriatruckee.com. La Galleria is located in the heart of historic downtown Truckee at 10112 Donner Pass Road.